If you have been on the lookout for a simple yet incredibly delicious way to enjoy your vegetables, then this Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Recipe will quickly become your new go-to. It’s a perfect blend of crispiness on the outside and tender, flavorful leaves on the inside, achieved with minimal effort and fuss. The air fryer does a fantastic job of bringing out the natural sweetness of the sprouts while infusing them with a subtle garlicky aroma and a touch of seasoning that makes every bite utterly irresistible. Whether you are a Brussels sprouts enthusiast or someone who hasn’t quite warmed up to them yet, this recipe will change the way you think about this underrated veggie.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Recipe lies in its simplicity—just a handful of fresh, everyday ingredients that each play a crucial role in building that perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. Using high-quality olive oil makes sure the sprouts crisp up beautifully, and the seasonings enhance rather than overpower their natural flavor.
- 1 lb fresh Brussels sprouts: Choose firm, bright green sprouts without blemishes for the best texture and flavor.
- 2 Tbsp olive oil: Helps the Brussels sprouts crisp and brown evenly in the air fryer.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Adds a warm, subtle garlic flavor that complements the sprouts perfectly.
- 3/4 tsp fine sea salt (or to taste): Enhances the natural sweetness while balancing flavors beautifully.
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper (or to taste): Adds a gentle heat and depth to the dish.
How to Make Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Start by trimming the Brussels sprouts to remove any discolored or yellow leaves—that’ll ensure every bite is fresh and tasty. Slice each sprout in half lengthwise from the stem to the tip; this way, they cook evenly and develop that perfect crisp outside while staying tender inside once air fried.
Step 2: Season and Oil the Sprouts
Place the halved Brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle garlic powder, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper on top. Toss everything together gently so each piece is coated evenly with that tasty seasoning blend—it’s the foundation of flavor for this Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Recipe.
Step 3: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection
Transfer the seasoned Brussels sprouts into your air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them for optimal crispiness. Set your air fryer to 375°F and cook for 12 to 15 minutes. About halfway through, pause and give the basket a good shake to promote even browning and prevent sticking. The aroma at this stage is seriously tempting!
How to Serve Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes can elevate this simple recipe wonderfully. Try sprinkling freshly grated Parmesan cheese right after cooking for a nutty, salty kick or a squeeze of lemon juice to add a bright, acidic contrast that highlights the sprouts’ natural sweetness. A handful of toasted pine nuts or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can also bring fresh complexity to your dish.
Side Dishes
These crispy Brussels sprouts make a fantastic side for almost any main course. They’re especially excellent alongside roast chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon. For a vegetarian meal, pair them with creamy risotto or whole grain pilaf to balance textures and flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests or simply enjoy your sprouts in a new way? Toss them with cooked quinoa, cranberries, and goat cheese for a refreshing warm salad. Alternatively, chop some air-fried sprouts and mix into pasta with garlic and olive oil for a quick dinner that feels a little special. The Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Recipe is so versatile you can experiment endlessly!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that Brussels sprouts will lose some of their crispiness but reheating can help bring back some texture.
Freezing
While Brussels sprouts can be frozen, it’s best to freeze them before cooking for optimal taste and texture. Cooked Brussels sprouts, especially crispy ones from an air fryer, don’t freeze and reheat well as they tend to become mushy and lose their crunch.
Reheating
To reheat, pop leftovers back into the air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 5 minutes. This method revives the crisp exterior nicely without drying out the insides, much better than the microwave which can turn them soggy almost immediately.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Absolutely, but be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before air frying. Frozen sprouts might take a few extra minutes to cook and won’t get as crispy as fresh ones, but they are still delicious and convenient.
Is it necessary to use garlic powder, or can I use fresh garlic?
Garlic powder is recommended here to ensure even flavor distribution and prevent burning during air frying. However, if you love fresh garlic, you can mince it finely and toss it with the sprouts after cooking for a milder garlic punch.
What if I don’t have an air fryer? Can I bake these in the oven?
Yes! Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet and roast at 425°F for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through. The texture will be a bit different but still wonderfully tasty.
How do I know when the Brussels sprouts are done?
Look for a deep golden brown on the cut sides and edges and a tender interior when pierced with a fork. The total cook time between 12-15 minutes usually hits the sweet spot.
Can I add other seasonings or spices?
Definitely! This recipe is your base canvas. Try adding smoked paprika, chili flakes for heat, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze after cooking to customize it to your taste.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have the perfect Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Recipe in your culinary arsenal, there’s nothing stopping you from turning this humble vegetable into a crowd-pleasing favorite. The ease, quick cook time, and unbeatable flavor make it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. So grab your air fryer, toss those sprouts with your favorite seasonings, and enjoy a delicious upgrade to your veggie routine. I promise you’ll be coming back to this recipe again and again!
Print
Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Recipe
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts recipe delivers crispy, flavorful Brussels sprouts perfect for a quick and healthy side dish. Tossed in olive oil and simple seasonings, these sprouts cook to golden perfection in the air fryer in just 15 minutes, retaining a wonderful texture and vibrant taste.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh Brussels sprouts
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 3/4 tsp fine sea salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare Brussels Sprouts: Trim the Brussels sprouts by removing any discolored leaves and slicing each sprout in half lengthwise from stem to end. Transfer them to a large mixing bowl to prepare for seasoning.
- Season: Drizzle the olive oil over the halved Brussels sprouts, then sprinkle garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Toss everything thoroughly to ensure the sprouts are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
- Air Fry: Place the seasoned Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Set the air fryer to 375°F and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to promote even browning. Adjust time based on your preferred crispiness.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation.
- You can add a splash of lemon juice or sprinkle parmesan cheese after cooking for added flavor.
- Adjust seasoning levels to taste, especially salt and pepper.
- Brussels sprouts can also be tossed with balsamic vinegar for a tangy glaze after air frying.
